Option A) 9.2 miles each way from warner springs to barrel springs on the PCT It would be the start of a California section hike on the PCT. And move my summer hike plan (Sequoia) to a Campo to Barrel Springs (6 days) except in October or November.

Nature is unpredictable and unsafe. Mountains are dangerous. Many books have been written about these dangers, and there's no way we can list them all here. Read the books.

Nelson Rocks Preserve is covered in steep terrain with loose, slippery and unstable footing. The weather can make matters worse. Sheer drops are everywhere. You may fall, be injured or die. There are hidden holes. You could break your leg. There are wild animals, which may be vicious, poisonous or carriers of dread diseases. These include poisonous snakes and insects. Plants can be poisonous as well. We don't do anything to protect you from any of this. We do not inspect, supervise or maintain the grounds, rocks, cliffs or other features, natural or otherwise.

Real dangers are present even on trails. Trails are not sidewalks. They can be, and are, steep, slippery and dangerous. Trail features made or enhanced by humans, such as steps, walls and railings (if any) can break, collapse, or otherwise fail catastrophically at any time. We don't promise to inspect, supervise or maintain them in any way. They may be negligently constructed or repaired. They are unsafe, period. Live with it or stay away.

Record highs: Friday -- 99deg -- broke the 1934 record of 98. Saturday -- 100deg -- broke the 1972 record of 93.

It was hot. But there was some cloud cover during the morning and early afternoon. Around 2pm though, the wind picked up. And kept getting stronger until we decided to exit the sandstorm 12+ hours early -- just after sunset.

Fairly early Saturday Eric and I walked up Palm Canyon to the grove. He hadn't been there since the mud flood. There were quite a few people. I don't think I've been hiking in ages and getting out was a good reminder to keep some balance.

Most of the rest of the day I was reading Flatlander and trying to stay in the shade.